Amazing maze

The maze is coming into its own now. The central ring of clove pinks is in full flower, the outer lavender rings provide a welcome framing, and we are looking forward to the hyssops - separate rings of pink and blue - to flower.

Smallest gardeners start work

Usually our school groups are aged at least six years old, but we were persuaded by the enthusiasm of the organiser to welcome a class of three-year olds from Grove Park Playgroup. They inspected the ladybirds, checked out the flowers and vegetables, and then planted lots of peas. They learnt a bit, and we learnt a lot: make sure the seeds are quite large and make sure the session is not too long. But apart from that, it's never too early to start them off.

Ladybirds preparing anti-blackfly weapons

Two ladybirds, horrified by an infestation on our broad beans, are captured in flagrante by photographer Caroline Ames.